Biological response modifiers are a new class of drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These modern biologics have greatly improved treatment for many people with RA. Unlike traditional treatments, biologics are large molecules produced in living cells and are considered aggressive treatments for RA.
They act like natural proteins in your immune system. Biologics for RA differ in what they target during the inflammatory process. There are various biologics and biosimilars, which are biologics similar to other biologics, including TNF Inhibitors.
By Linda Rath | Updated Sept. 3, 2022, biologics are a subset of a class of medications called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Nonbiologic or conventional DMARDs such as methotrexate are drugs composed of small molecules made from chemicals in a lab. In contrast, biologics are produced through more complex processes in living organisms.
The advent of biologics has revolutionized the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These drugs, which include Cimzia, Enbrel, Humira, Kineret, and Orencia, have become key components in managing the condition.
Biologic drugs are one type of medicine doctors use to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA). These include newer medications such as Baricitinib (Olumiant), Tofacitinib (Xeljanz), and Upadacitinib (Rinvoq). Understanding the role and benefits of biologics can be crucial for those affected by RA.
For further information on biologic treatments for RA, you can visit resources such as Healthline, Verywell Health, and the Arthritis Foundation.
